A group of ten local engineering apprentices from BT (British Telecom) had reason to be cheerful as they recently completed their National Award in Communication Technology, thanks to a training partnership with South Eastern Regional College (SERC).
The nationally recognised qualification is designed to equip apprentices with the necessary skills and knowledge needed for employment within the communications industry.
The course, which was delivered at the Colleges Lisburn Campus, involved on-the-job assessment as well as classroom based learning.
Mairead Meyer, Head of Field Engineering at BT commented; “BT has reaped enormous benefit through the partnership with SERC. The quality of teaching has delivered a successful outcome with all the apprentices securing their certificate.
“SERC have been fantastic delivering the course and working around our needs. The course worked very well and SERC consulted us from start to finish ensuring the course ran smoothly. The apprentices are now equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge necessary to carry out their job. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the apprentices and wish them all well for their future with BT.”
SERC is a centre of excellence in electronic engineering with experience of working with leading local companies to deliver bespoke training. In the past, the College has successfully delivered training courses to BT, giving apprentices the chance to gain valuable hands on experience while at the same time achieving their qualifications.
Kieran McKenna, Head of School for Manufacturing and Electrical Engineering had this to say; “Telecommunications is a priority skill area so the success of this programme and similar programmes will help equip the local economy with skilled engineers who are key players in the development of the region.
“By working in partnership, the College and local employers can offer high quality training and economically valuable skills and qualifications to their employees. This allows the best organisations to stand out in the market, and potentially gain new business on the basis of their proven capability.” Continues Kieran.
Ken Webb Principle and Chief Executive at SERC said: "SERC is proud of its strong links with leading local businesses. As a College we are committed to delivering excellence.
“As examination results are received, more and more young people are making informed decisions regarding their careers, and apprenticeships are very much recognised as the way to go. Apprentices get the best of both worlds - they earn as they learn, and develop specialist skills using new technologies and gain recognised qualifications.”